WWI Tankers Mask

This is a WWI tankers mask I picked up at an auction. It was listed as an 19th century stone cutters mask so I was hoping to get it on the sly, but there were a few people there who knew what it was.LOL

The mask is an anti-spalling mask. Remember tanks weren't built the same in WWI as they were in later years with heavy armour.When a bullet struck the outside of the tank it would send metal and paint fragments flying on the inside of the tank. These masks were used to protect against that flying debris.They were not very popular with the crews as they caused vertigo and are heavy and hot. I have yet to find a period photo of one in wear and only a couple with the masks pictured hanging around a neck or being held in hand.